How to get a Social Security card

You get a Social Security card by applying to the Social Security Administration (SSA) in person at a local Social Security office. You will need to bring proof of age, proof of citizenship or immigration status, and proof of identity. The SSA will take your application, verify your documents, and mail the card to you within 1 to 2 weeks in most cases.

If you already have a card and need a replacement because it is lost, stolen, or damaged, the process is the same: visit your local office with the required documents. You cannot apply by mail or online for a new card, though you can find your nearest office and check hours on the SSA website before you go.

Key Takeaways

  • You must apply in person at a Social Security office; there is no online or mail application for a new card.
  • Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a government-issued photo ID, and proof of your current address.
  • If you are not a U.S. citizen, you will need to show your immigration documents, such as a green card, visa, or work authorization.
  • The card arrives by mail within 1 to 2 weeks; you do not receive it at the office on the day you apply.
  • You can replace a lost, stolen, or damaged card using the same process and documents as a first-time application.

Documents you need to bring

The SSA requires three types of documents: proof of age, proof of citizenship or immigration status, and proof of identity. For proof of age, bring your original or certified birth certificate. A photocopy is not accepted unless it is certified by the issuing agency.

For proof of citizenship or immigration status, U.S. citizens bring their original birth certificate or passport. Non-citizens bring their green card, employment authorization document (EAD), visa, or other immigration paperwork issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). If you are in the country on a visa, bring the visa and your passport.

For proof of identity, bring a government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. If you do not have a photo ID, the SSA will accept other documents like a school ID, employee badge, or medical record with your name and identifying information. Bring the original document, not a copy.

If your documents are in a language other than English, bring the original and an English translation certified by a translator. The SSA does not translate documents for you.

What happens at the Social Security office

When you arrive, you will check in and receive a number. Wait to be called, then go to the window and tell the representative you are applying for a Social Security card. Hand over your documents. The representative will review them, ask you questions about your name, date of birth, and citizenship status, and fill out Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) with you.

You will sign the form in front of the representative. They will take your documents, make copies, and return the originals to you. They will tell you that your card will arrive by mail and give you a receipt showing the date you applied. Do not leave without this receipt — it proves you applied if questions come up later.

The entire visit usually takes 15 to 45 minutes, depending on how busy the office is. Bring all documents in originals; the office will not accept photocopies except for certified birth certificates.

Timeline and what to expect after you apply

The SSA mails your card within 1 to 2 weeks in most cases. The card comes to the address you gave at the office. If you have not received it after 2 weeks, contact your local Social Security office to check the status. Have your receipt from the day you applied ready when you call.

In rare cases, the SSA may need more information or documents before it can issue your card. If this happens, the office will contact you by mail or phone. Respond as quickly as you can, because delays in providing documents can slow down the process.

Once your card arrives, check that your name and Social Security number are correct. If there is an error, return to the office with the card and your receipt. The SSA will issue a corrected card at no charge.

Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged card

If your card is lost, stolen, or too damaged to use, you can get a replacement using the same process: visit your local Social Security office with proof of age, citizenship or immigration status, and identity. You do not need to file a police report or take any other step before applying for a replacement.

If your card was stolen and you are concerned about identity theft, you can also contact the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to place a fraud alert on your credit report. This is separate from replacing your card, but it is a useful step if you think someone may try to use your number.

Name changes and corrections

If you need to change your name on your Social Security card — for example, after marriage, divorce, or a legal name change — visit your local office with your current Social Security card, proof of your legal name change (such as a marriage certificate or court order), and proof of identity. The SSA will issue a new card with your updated name at no charge.

If your card has your name spelled wrong or your number is incorrect, bring the card and proof of identity to the office. The SSA will investigate and issue a corrected card if an error is found.

Finding your local Social Security office

Use the SSA's office locator tool on its website to find the address, phone number, and hours of your nearest Social Security office. You can search by city or ZIP code. Many offices now use an online appointment system; check your local office's page to see if you can schedule a time slot before you go. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments often mean shorter wait times.

Some Social Security offices have reduced hours or limited services, so call ahead or check the website to confirm the office is open and handling card applications on the day you plan to visit. If your local office is closed, you can visit any other Social Security office in your state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for a Social Security card by mail or online?

No. You must apply in person at a Social Security office. The SSA does not accept mail or online applications for new cards or replacements. You can use the office locator on the SSA website to find your nearest office and check its hours before you go.

What if I don't have a birth certificate?

Contact the vital records office in the state or country where you were born and request a certified copy. This can take several weeks. If you cannot obtain a birth certificate, the SSA may accept other documents such as a baptism record, school record, or medical record showing your age and name, but call your local office first to confirm what they will accept.

How much does a Social Security card cost?

There is no charge. The SSA issues Social Security cards for free, including replacements for lost, stolen, or damaged cards.

What if I'm not a U.S. citizen?

You can get a Social Security card if you have a valid visa, green card, or work authorization from USCIS. Bring your immigration documents along with proof of age and identity. Undocumented immigrants cannot get a Social Security card, but some states issue Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) instead.

Can someone else pick up my card for me?

No. The SSA mails the card to the address you provide at the office. You cannot have someone else collect it in person. If you move after you apply, contact your local Social Security office to update your address so the card is mailed to the correct location.